Protecting American Borders
At the beginning of this century, a Jewish immigrant from England named Israel Zangwill authored a play whose story line has long been forgotten, but whose central theme has not. His play was entitled "The Melting Pot" and its message still holds a tremendous power on the national imagination – “the promise that all immigrants can be transformed into Americans, a new alloy forged in a crucible of democracy, freedom and civic responsibility” (Booth, A1). “Today, the United States is experiencing its second great wave of immigration, a movement of people that has profound implications for a society that by tradition pays homage to its immigrant roots at the same time it confronts complex and deeply ingrained ethnic and racial divisions” (Booth A1). Whether or not America continues to be the great melting pot or the land of opportunity remains to be seen. Clearly implied in Zangwill’s play is the notion is that America will always be an inviting place to all, where dreams can be realized and opportunities abound. In support of this notion that America has traditionally been viewed as a land of opportunity, some citizens believe that existing border restrictions are too firm. In contrast, due to increased tension in Mexico, many politicians feel that America must tighten its already secure borders to prevent illegal immigration. Although both parties differ, United States borders must be protected to maintain the integrity of the country. Supporters of more open borders argue that this will help keep the economy moving by filling low-wage jobs and providing additional consumers for a variety of goods and services. Greenspan argues that illegal immigration has been a huge contributor to the growth of the economy. “Between 2000 and 2007, for example, it accounted for more than one sixth of the increase in our total civilian workforce”